Family: Gobiidae
Largesnout Goby — a Gobiidae from southern Chinese coasts and estuaries, peaceful except over a chosen cave. Reaches 11.2–16.5 cm; pairs or small groups with ample hiding spots. 18–26 °C.
Awaous melanocephalus is a Gobiidae from southern Chinese coasts and estuaries. In the wild it prefers shallow streams and estuaries over sand; in the aquarium it stays peaceful except over a chosen cave. Plan on 11.2–16.5 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Non-goby bottom fish.
Intermediate difficulty. Peaceful except over a chosen cave; pairs or small groups with ample hiding spots.
Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.
Adults reach 11.2–16.5 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 327 litres.
Predatory bottom-picker; offer varied small fare. It forages naturally over fine sand, so let some food reach the bottom.
Peaceful except over a chosen cave; pairs or small groups with ample hiding spots. Good company: Non-goby bottom fish — Ignore its territorial posturing. Keep away from Large aggressive fish — Shatter its sense of cover.
Its home waters are southern Chinese coasts and estuaries — shallow streams and estuaries over sand, with still to gentle current.
Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.
In the aquarium: lays eggs in a sheltered cavity; males fan and guard. Males larger and more colourful.